RAY CRAWFORD insisted Tuesday’s leasing.com Trophy clash with Stevenage is just as important to Colchester United as any other fixture this season.

The U’s have been going well on all fronts this season, remaining in touch with the Sky Bet League Two play-off places as well as booking a Carabao Cup quarter-final date with Manchester United at Old Trafford. Nevertheless, the former frontman has urged John McGreal’s men to take the Trophy seriously and keep the momentum flowing.

“Success breeds success and as a player, you should only want to win in any game you play,” Crawford told Yellow Sport.

“I know the supporters often see this competition as a distraction, but it still offers an opportunity of a Wembley final as well as giving competitive football to the squad.

“We saw how much it mean to Colchester when they beat another of my old clubs, Ipswich, in the group stages. The boys must ensure they carry the same determination into this game and get us through.”

Crawford added: “I think this is the strongest Colchester squad in some time. I’m sure the manager will see this as a great opportunity for them to progress against a Stevenage side still struggling towards the bottom of League Two.

Colchester United v Stevenage – Head to head:

Colchester United won: 8Drawn: 2Stevenage won: 3

Colchester United v Stevenage – Last five meetings (all competitions):